Community

The Torquay Improvement Association (TIA) worked very hard to develop and be caretakers of the Torquay township. The community was connected by durable relationships that extend beyond immediate family and geographical boundaries.

While the members were primarily Geelong businessmen who created a holiday home in Torquay, together with local businessmen and farmers they also saw the value in tourism which in turn created a thriving coastal town community which would bring revenue and services to the holiday town.

With a focus on road access the TIA also ensured the foreshore was accessible and comfortable for day trippers, that there was a range of recreational pursuits within the town. They built the hall for church services. It was also an entertainment venue for such activities as dances and later films.

Sporting facilities were quickly developed such as golf, tennis and bowls. Euchre nights were held.

Today many of these avenues for recreation still exist today and more have developed.

Since the township was formed in 1866, a couple of events stand out in Torquay history, such as Scammell Shipwreck, 1940 bush fire and the Bass Strait crossing.